Centre Withholding Samagra Shiksha Funds in Tamil Nadu
The Indian central government has withheld funds for the Samagra Shiksha scheme in Tamil Nadu due to the state's non-implementation of the New Education Policy (NEP) of 2020. The Tamil Nadu Chief Minister, M K Stalin, has requested the release of Rs 2,152 crore pending for the scheme, which supports the Right to Education (RTE) Act.
Core Issue: Three-Language Formula
- The conflict centers around the three-language formula included in the NEP.
- The Centre views this as a way to help youth secure employment across regions.
- Tamil Nadu perceives it as an attempt to impose Hindi, given its long history of anti-Hindi agitations.
- Tamil Nadu follows a two-language formula, teaching only Tamil and English, unlike other states.
Historical Context of Language Policy in Education
The debate on language policy in education has prevailed since Independence. The University Education Commission of 1948-49, chaired by Dr. Sarvepalli Radhakrishnan, underscored the complexity and emotional attachment surrounding the issue.
Radhakrishnan Commission's Recommendations
- The Commission advocated for Hindi as the federal language while regional languages served provincial purposes.
- It acknowledged English's necessary role till all provinces were prepared for transition.
- This led to the proposal of a three-language formula for school education, suggesting bilingualism as essential.
- The National Education Commission of 1964-66 (Kothari Commission) accepted this, and it was integrated into the 1968 and 1986 National Policies on Education.
NEP 2020 and Policy Flexibility
- The NEP 2020 retains the three-language formula but emphasizes flexibility, allowing states and students to choose languages.
- It states that at least two of the three languages should be native to India.
Centre’s Evolving Stance
The Centre has historically viewed education as being on the Concurrent List, leaving implementation up to the states. However, recent actions tie funding to NEP compliance, pressuring states to adhere to the policy.
